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Tarpon Springs boy slugs his way to Little League World Series Home Run Derby finals

Posted at 7:16 PM, Jul 15, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-15 22:31:51-04

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. -- A Tarpon Springs boy is heading to the Little League World Series Home Run Derby finals.

Everest Ouelette, 12, has loved baseball since he was a little boy.

"His hand-eye coordination was pretty tight and he just liked to play," said Micah Ouelette, Everest's mother.

Though not so little anymore at 5’9” and 170 pounds, Everest’s name fits him, and so does the game of baseball.

His parents say they noticed his natural ability and got him a batting cage.

“Practicing is the only way you’re going to get better. You’re not going to get better only by going on your natural talent or how big you are,” said Everest.

And all that practicing paid off.

Everest completed at the Little League World Series Home Run Derby over the weekend at SunTrust Park in Atlanta, where the Braves play.

"If I didn’t win I probably still would’ve had a really great time," said Everest.

But he did win with a total of 44 home runs.

He’s one of only eight kids in the entire country heading to Williamsport, Pa., next month to complete in the Little League World Series Home Run Derby finals.

"He’s excited and we’re excited for him," said Micah.

His family said they are especially thankful to T-Mobile who sponsored them while in Atlanta.

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